Gathering evidence
Once you have chosen your qualification and your Registered Training Organisation (RTO), you need to begin gathering your evidence. Your assessor at the RTO will be able to help you decide on the best evidence, but you need to be proactive in putting it together.
This can take some time to organise. You need to show your assessor you already have the skills and knowledge to meet Australian industry standards.
Types of evidence
Evidence can take many forms including:
- samples, photographs or videos of your work
- a practical 'on the job' assessment
- answers to questions in an interview with your assessor
- a simulation of a work activity
- letters of validation from your employers
- performance management reports
- copies of documents you have completed at work
- certificates
- any other evidence that is valid, sufficient, authentic and current
You need to work out which types of evidence best demonstrate your competence.
Dos and Don'ts
Here are some tips to help with compiling your recognition application:
| Dos | Don'ts |
|---|---|
| Do show reasons why you believe you are competent.e.g. I have been working on a building site for two years. I believe I am competent because I finish my tasks on time, I have a strong record on working safely and I follow plans precisely. Evidence of this is contained in my supervisor's report, which is Item 1 in my portfolio. | Don't assume you're competent simply because you have been doing the job for a long time. e.g. I have been working on a building site for two years. My tasks include following plans, preparing and handling materials, using tools and equipment and carrying out basic demolition. |
| Do use examples to show you are competent.e.g. Before I begin a training session I always make sure computer wires are taped to the floor. When training begins, I let people know where the fire exits are and advise people to drink water during the day. | Don't just say you are competent without giving examples.e.g. I am very aware of OH&S issues and try to keep the workplace safe at all times. |
| Do get external support for your examples. Wherever possible, back up your claims by reports from witnesses or supervisors, or maybe even prizes, awards, qualifications or newspaper items. | Don't rely on your own word only to prove your competence. It is the weakest form of evidence. |
| Do explain the results or outcomes of your competent performance.e.g. Thanks to my re-organisation of the kitchen, chefs can get on with cooking and waiters with serving, without confusion. As a result we have reduced waiting time for meals by 10 per cent in the last three weeks. Evidence of this is in my employer's reference, which is Item 2 in my portfolio, and also in a testimonial from a regular customer, which is Item 3 in my portfolio. I also include photos showing the kitchen set-up before and after I arranged it. | Don't just say what you did, without explaining the results you got. e.g. Thanks to my re-organisation of the kitchen, tension has been reduced. |
Look at our FAQs for more information about identifying and collecting evidence.
- Consider your competencies
- See qualifications that match
- Find an RTO to assess you
RPL - Group Skills Identifier
This tool can help identify skills of a large group of students or employees for RPL purposes. It is freely available for registered users. View the Guide to GSI.
For enquiries:
Email:
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Tel: Rajeev Arora 9266 8440
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